4 Reasons to Visit Delaware County, N.Y., This Fall

The quiet, rural landscape of Delaware County makes it a year-round destination for those looking to escape the daily grind and get some fresh air, but it’s scenic mountain views and thriving farm country make it especially idyllic in the fall.

With covered bridges, farmers markets, cozy lodging and historic places to explore, this small slice of upstate New York offers everything you love about autumn.

Foliage Views  

City-dwellers that need a change of pace will certainly find it in Delaware County. This part of the Catskills is untouched by development, free of large retailers and box stores. Instead, you are invited to simply enjoy the great outdoors and the colorful show that nature casts onto the surrounding mountains. Whether hiking or biking along the Catskill Scenic Trail,  golfing, or paddling or fishing on a lake, there are plenty of ways to take in the view.

One spectacular outlook is at the top of Mount Utsayantha in Stamford. Climb (by foot or by car) to the top, bring a picnic and take a load off. If you are up for it, you can take the stairs to the top of the historic fire tower that sits at the summit for a 360-degree foliage-filled Catskills panorama.

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Craft Beverages and Farm-Fresh Food

Delaware County is known for its bountiful farmland. Throughout the end of October, you can scope out some of the many farmers markets available on the weekends and spend a quiet morning gathering farm- and garden-fresh goodies to take home with you. In Halcotssville, the Pakatakan farmers market takes place at the historic red round barn, one of the earliest and only remaining entirely round barns in New York State. See calendar of events for more.

Many of the restaurants in the area are also dedicated to bringing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients straight to your plate – and your glass! The growing craft beverage scene is something beer, wine, cider and spirit enthusiasts won’t want to miss. Visit a tasting room and sample your way through a flight or bottle of your choice.

History

While you are in the area, take note of the history all around.

For starters, the covered bridges in Hamden, Delhi and Downsville are what autumn dreams are made of. If you are nearby, don’t miss the photo-op.

Take a walk through the past on a hike through the trails at John Borroughs Woodchuck Lodge in Roxbury and learn about the famed naturalist’s life and contributions to conservation. The Lodge itself is open for guided tours the first weekend of each month, May through October.

First established in 1846, the Hanford Mill in East Meredith is home to one of the only water-powered mills in the country still in operation. See the working sawmill, gristmill and woodworking factory in action, then visit the gift shop for some mill-made crafts and products. Currently, only individual-guided tours of the property are available and booking ahead is recommended. Visitors are welcome to explore the natural and rail trails on the property and set up a picnic by the millpond.

Lodging Options

Whether you want luxury, casual or off-the-grid accommodations for your overnights, there’s something for every kind of traveler in this part of the Catskills.

The boutique Roxbury Motel is known for its whimsical, campy and over-the-top themed rooms, drawing inspiration from the “The Wizard of Oz” to coconut cream pie. The fun continues two miles away at its sister property, the Roxbury Stratton Falls.

If you want to spend your retreat lost in nature, set up camp at one of the many campsites. Some of the farms even offer lodging. And if you are bringing-along a four-legged friend, there are pet-friendly options as well.

Find your perfect stay here.

Start planning your Delaware County trip today.

Have you ever been to this part of upstate New York? Share your recommendations for your favorite things to do and places to stay in the area in the comments below.